Duty Free-ing

I woke up early this morning (8 a.m.), moved to the terrace from my room carrying my pillow, and  graciously lay down on the sofa terrace and closed my eyes, prepared for another hour of sleep.

Lola was there having her coffee, then mom came and also sat in one of the chairs in the terrace. She said she wanted to go to Clark again. Since today was the last day of this long weekend and it’s mom’s birthday tomorrow, lola and she agreed at once that we would be off to Clark today. Ang bilis ah!

In an hour and a half, mom, dad, lola, me, and ian were all set to Clark! Wuhoo! I hadn’t been there since 7 years ago, more or less. We tried the SCTEX route to avoid the traffic in San Fernando. Indeed, it was a fast travel; along the way, you’d see many…rice fields. haha.

After the SCTEX exit, we were a bit disappointed by the lack of arrow signs. We took wrong turns several times, and it would have been better if they had big signs pointing to Clark or free directory. With the help of passersby, we were able to spot the place — Puregold Duty Free.

When I was a teen, I loved tugging along with my parents. There were so many signature clothes and jeans (you know, a kid) on discounts, plus I get to choose which chocolates I want to have and the Combos!!! Sometimes, they were even on buy 1, take 1 deal! Sulit!

Sadly, I was a bit disappointed with what happened in the area. There were many shopping centers that were already closed, and I can’t seem to find where the signature clothes are. Before, it was easy to spot them. The prices were still discounted, and there were still items one cannot find in an ordinary grocery store. But they aren’t as good a deal as they were (considering the travel expenses). I wanted to show Ian (high school cousin) how nice the place was. He was not impressed with the shopping centers.

BUT we had fun! All the time, lola, Ian, and I were exchanging stories. Actually, the three of us spent more time waiting for mom to finish her shopping outside the Parkson center, in a monoblock table beside a pizza stand, than looking for things to buy. I am sure mom also enjoyed shopping and window shopping!

PLUS I got to buy from an old female Aeta a 20-peso wind instrument made of wood (kawayan I think), just as big as my palm, which could recreate the chirping sounds of birds. Fantastic, ha? And I also bought a 20-peso flute from a little Aeta boy. Eric will sure like it!

Ta-ta! Got to try my new toys.